What Is Kensington (Liverpool) Like?

Kensington, Liverpool, often referred to simply as "Kenny" by locals, is a residential area just outside the city centre.

 

Known for its affordability and diverse community, it attracts a mix of students, families, and professionals.

 

While it has seen some regeneration in recent years, Kensington remains a budget-friendly option for those looking to live close to the heart of Liverpool.

 

But what’s it really like to live here? Whether you’re a student searching for accommodation, a young professional, or just curious about the area, this guide will give you a full picture of life in Kensington.

Location & Transport Links

One of Kensington’s biggest advantages is its proximity to Liverpool city centre. Situated just a mile from the city, it’s easy to get around whether you’re commuting to university, work, or heading for a night out.

• Walking & Cycling – Many students and professionals choose to walk or cycle into the city, with journeys taking around 15-20 minutes.
• Buses – Multiple bus routes serve the area, including the 10, 10A, 10B, and 8, which run frequently along Kensington Road into the city centre and beyond.
• Trains – The nearest train stations are Edge Hill and Liverpool Lime Street, both easily accessible from Kensington.

With its strong transport links, living in Kensington is convenient for those who need to travel around the city regularly.

 

Housing & Accommodation

Kensington is known for its affordable housing, making it a popular choice for students and those on a budget.

• Terraced Houses – The area is largely made up of older terraced houses, many of which have been converted into student accommodation.
• Student Housing (HMOs) – Due to its affordability, Kensington is home to many HMOs (houses in multiple occupation), where students share properties with housemates.
• Flats & Apartments – While less common than houses, some modern apartments are available, particularly closer to the city centre.

Average Rent Prices:

• Student houses: £80–£110 per week (including bills)
• Private rental flats: £400–£700 per month, depending on size and location

Compared to areas like Smithdown Road or the city centre, Kensington offers cheaper rent, making it attractive for those looking to save money.

 

Student Life & Community

Kensington has a large student population, as it sits close to the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, and Liverpool Hope University.

• Many students choose Kensington for its affordability and convenient location.
• The mix of students, families, and long-term residents creates a diverse community.
• While there isn’t a huge student nightlife scene within Kensington itself, the city centre is just a short trip away.

For students looking for budget-friendly living without being too far from university, Kensington is a solid choice.

 

Shops, Cafés & Local Amenities

Kensington has all the essential amenities for day-to-day life.

• Supermarkets – There’s a Lidl, an Iceland, and several Tesco Express stores within walking distance.
• Convenience Stores & International Shops – A variety of smaller shops cater to the area's diverse community, selling international foods and fresh produce.
• Cafés & Takeaways – There aren’t many trendy coffee spots, but plenty of affordable takeaways, chippies, and kebab shops cater to students and residents.

While Kensington isn’t known for high-end shopping or dining, it covers all the basics with convenience stores, supermarkets, and casual eateries.

 

Nightlife & Social Scene

Kensington itself doesn’t have a huge nightlife scene, but its location means you’re never far from the action.

• Pubs – Local pubs like The Kensington and The Vine offer affordable drinks, though they are more traditional than student-focused.
• City Centre Nightlife – Concert Square, Seel Street, and the Baltic Triangle are all just a short taxi or bus ride away, giving easy access to bars, clubs, and live music venues.
• Local Events – Kensington has some community-focused events and activities, but for a proper night out, most people head into town.

If nightlife is a priority, living in Kensington means you can enjoy the city’s buzzing social scene without paying city centre rent.

 

Green Spaces & Leisure Activities

While Kensington is largely residential, there are a few green spaces nearby.

• Newsham Park – A large park just a short walk away, perfect for running, dog walking, or relaxing outdoors.
• Edge Hill Park – A smaller but well-maintained park, good for a quiet break from the busy streets.
• Gyms & Sports Facilities – There are several gyms nearby, including JD Gyms and The Gym Group, which offer student-friendly memberships.

If you enjoy outdoor activities, Sefton Park and Princes Park are also within easy reach.

 

Cost of Living in Kensington

Kensington is one of the cheapest areas to live in Liverpool, making it ideal for students and those on a budget.

• Rent – Lower than many other parts of the city.
• Groceries & Essentials – Supermarkets like Lidl keep shopping costs affordable.
• Transport – Many people save money by walking or cycling into town instead of using buses or taxis.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to live while still being close to the city, Kensington is worth considering.

 

Is Kensington Safe?

Like many urban areas close to a city centre, Kensington has some safety considerations to be aware of. While it has a busy and diverse community, there are reports of petty theft and antisocial behaviour, particularly in student-heavy areas.

 

Common Considerations:

• Opportunistic theft – Like in most cities, bike theft and break-ins can occur, so it’s always best to keep valuables secure.
• Street incidents – Occasionally, minor incidents such as phone snatching or disturbances have been reported, though they are not the norm for most residents.
• Lively atmosphere – Some areas can be busier and more active, particularly in the evenings.

 

Staying Safe in Kensington:

• Keep your home secure – Lock doors and windows when leaving, especially in shared houses.
• Stay on well-lit routes – If walking home at night, stick to main roads where possible.
• Be mindful of valuables – Keep bags zipped and phones secure, particularly in crowded places.
• Travel with friends – If heading home late, walking with friends or using a taxi can add extra peace of mind.

 

Many students and professionals live in Kensington happily without any issues, and by taking simple precautions, you can feel comfortable and safe while enjoying everything the area has to offer.

 

 

Is Kensington a Good Place to Live?

Kensington is a budget-friendly, well-located area with a diverse community and strong student presence.

Pros:

• Affordable rent compared to other areas
• Close to universities and city centre
• Good transport links and walkable distance to town
• Plenty of local amenities and supermarkets

Cons:

• Some areas can feel run-down
• Higher crime rates compared to other student areas
• Not as many social spots or nightlife venues within Kensington itself

 

Who Would Enjoy Living in Kensington?

• Students looking for affordable accommodation near universities
• Young professionals who want to live close to the city on a budget
• Anyone who values affordability over luxury

Overall, Kensington isn’t the most polished area in Liverpool, but it’s practical, well-located, and cheap, ideal for students and those wanting to save on rent while staying close to the city centre.